The much-loved 1XX and Pacific Toyota Cram the Van campaign has rolled out for its sixth year – and organisers say community support is stronger than ever.

The four-week initiative sees the van visit locations across Whakatāne, Kawerau and Ōpōtiki, collecting Christmas donations for Eastern Bay charities.

Radio 1XX director Sarah Galbraith said the campaign had grown significantly.

“Last year, we filled six vehicles, including the van; it was overflowing. This year, we’ve got a storage container sponsored by Bay Storage. The generosity just keeps increasing.”

At the heart of the operation is the Cram the Van vehicle that Pacific Toyota provides and signwrites each year, refreshed with new sponsors and colourful Christmas decor.

“It's an incredible community effort,” said Mrs Galbraith.

“Hats off to our community because they just so get behind it. If we're at a supermarket, they'll come out with a full trolley load for us.”

Promotions manager Rhys Jones agrees the support has been amazing.

“Even when times are tough, people still show up for this and jump on board.  Everyone is just still so kind and gives so much; there’s great community spirit.”

On Friday, Cram the Van will be in Ōpōtiki for a community day hosted by Whakatōhea Mussels, EastPack and Seeka.

The event will include free mussel fritters, a barbecue, and appearances from Whai Basketball players, with Pacific Toyota staff also attending.

Organisers hope the day will boost visibility and donations as the campaign enters its final stretch.

The team urges donors to think not just about staples, but small dignities and joys.

“Think about the treats people can’t often afford at Christmas,” Mrs Galbraith said.

“Nice pantry items, special goods, toiletries – as well as basics.”

Pet food is also welcome, with SPCA and Ōpōtiki Society for the Care of Animals (OSCA) among the six charities receiving support. Wrapped gifts with age labels for children are especially appreciated.

The other charities are Salvation Army, Have a Heart, Koha Ki Kawerau and Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust.

The campaign ends on December 13 when the van will be in the Whakatāne Christmas Parade before going to Pacific Toyota on Commerce Street.

The public is invited to attend from 1pm, with free ice-creams from Tearrific, a barbecue, and a visit from NZ Sevens player Jorja Miller.

The donated items will then be distributed to the six partnering charities in time for Christmas.

Cram the Van accepts
■ New toys and wrapped presents (labelled with age/gender)
■ Non-perishable food
■ Toiletries and hygiene products
■ Christmas “treat” items
■ Pet food
■ Grocery vouchers or monetary donations

Where will the van be?
■December 3 — Disabilities Resource Centre (11am–1pm), New World Whakatāne (4pm–7pm)
■ December 4 — First Credit Union Whakatāne (11am–1pm)
■ December 5 — Whakatōhea Mussels, Eastpack Ōpōtiki, Seeka Ōpōtiki (all 11am–1pm)
■ December 8 – Fonterra Edgecumbe (12pm-2pm)
■ December 9 – Haddock Spraypainters & Panelbeaters (11am-1pm); Surfing for Farmers (4pm-7pm)
■ December 10 – Eastern Bay Primary Health Alliance (11am-1pm)
■ December 11 – Property Brokers Whakatāne (11am-1pm); Late Night Shopping EPIC (5pm-7pm)
■ December 12 – New World Whakatāne (11am-1pm)
■ December 13 – Unpacking Day at Pacific Toyota. (1pm)